What Is PlaySkills?
PlaySkills is a play-based social-emotional learning program for children ages 2–12 in Wooster, Ohio. Through movement, games, humor, and challenge, children build skills that don’t always come naturally, like handling frustration, working with others, communicating clearly, and persisting when things get hard.
We believe learning should be playful, and meaningful.
And yes, fun is part of the skill.
At PlaySkills, confidence grows through learning simple skills and playing together. Children are encouraged to experience their own growth, so the confidence they build is earned and empowering.
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Kids are invited to:
- Come out of their shell
- Be brave
- Play hard and be silly
- Take on challenges
All while:
- Remaining respectful
- Honoring effort
- Learning how their actions affect others
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Our goal isn’t just good behavior during class. It’s helping children learn to create positive social experiences, build healthy relationships, and develop skills that support their lifelong wellness.
Get Started with PlaySkills
*Each row below shows a different student’s self-portrait and growth over the course of one year in class.
PlaySkills is grounded in well-established child development research that shows kids learn best through play, experience, and connection with others.
Get Started with PlaySkills
About the Teachers
John “Mr. V” Vanek is a licensed and practicing Early Childhood Intervention Specialist and has been practicing in Wooster now for 7 years. He taught martial arts for 15 years, and he’s experienced teaching students of all needs and ages, and has developed a talent for energizing his students by playfully challenging them. He is passionate to help students understand the learning process, realize their potential and learn to connect more deeply with their peers and the world around them. He created PlaySkills because he recognizes the importance of the life skills he teaches at PlaySkills, and his greatest treasure is being able to teach them!
“Hiyaa!!! “
“Momma Mia! “
Camila “Mrs. V” Perdoncini Carvalho has been helping her husband Mr. V lead PlaySkills for 2.5 years. By day, Mrs. V is doing post-doctoral research at OSU, studying plant pathology. By night she absolutely adores playing with, teaching and helping the students grow in class!
Luigi says, “Let’s-ah go PlaySkills!!!”
